A small brewery near Devizes is moving with the times to help people with food allergies by producing gluten free stout.

Malcolm Shipp, managing director of The Kennet & Avon Brewery in Seend, who also runs the Vaults pub in Devizes, said: "We noticed an increase in sales of gluten free beers in The Vaults, Devizes and we even held a gluten free beer festival last November but couldn't find a stout.

“We did a bit of research and found a new method of brewing with traditional ingredients with a process that removes the gluten. To be declared gluten free and approved by Coeliac UK products must be tested and contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. We test each batch and have found they have all been well below 10. We've had a big thumbs up from all that have tried it so far."

He said that the new product called The Stout Without is a dry stout at 5.3 per cent proof and with aromas of licorice, roasted coffee and chocolate. Mr Shipp said: “We think the new brew will appeal to those with gluten intolerance and those choosing a gluten free diet.”

The beer is available both on draught and in newly launched bottles and can be bought from village shops, farm shops and The Vaults.

The Kennet & Avon Brewery is still seeking premises after an earlier option fell through last year, beer continues to be brewed by Wessex Brewery in Longbridge Deverill. Mr Shipp is hoping to find a new site this year and will be launching a crowdfunding campaign to allow local beer enthusiasts to invest in the brewery.